Deputy leader of Reform UK-led Sunderland City Council steps down just months into role

A statement said Councillor Daniel Cowie had taken the “difficult decision to step back” following the “rapid deterioration of his father’s health”.

The former retail worker and carer was elected to the Grangetown ward in the May “all-out” local elections which saw Reform UK sweep to power, and has been serving as deputy leader of the council since.

Reform UK Sunderland confirmed that, as one of his father’s primary carers, Cllr Cowie is “no longer able to dedicate the significant additional time required by the deputy leader position while balancing his family responsibilities”.

Cllr Cowie is not stepping down as a councillor and is expected to continue as one of three Reform UK representatives for the Grangetown ward.

Councillor Andrew Ramsey, a Roker councillor and Reform UK cabinet member, has been elected as the new deputy leader.

Cllr Ramsey, who already serves as the council’s cabinet member for corporate services and local government efficiency, will take on the wider leadership role while continuing work to make the council “more efficient, modern and focused on delivering value for local taxpayers”.

The Reform UK Sunderland statement said Cllr Ramsay brings 17 years of private sector experience in the technology industry to his cabinet role and noted he had already played a leading role in identifying significant council savings.

The statement goes on: “He will continue in his existing portfolio alongside his new responsibilities as deputy leader.”

The council’s next full council meeting is scheduled to take place at City Hall on Wednesday, September 16, from 4pm.